Theology and the real world

I usually enjoy Bene’s questions. Yesterday Bene asked one about a theological issue in the comments below:

This is so much it’s own world, populated by it’s own geeks, isn’t it? The rest of us are headed straight to hell in all our ignorance. How does this concern translate to real-world other than paychecks for pastors?

I’m sure Bene isn’t the only one to observe that many theological arguments are held among religious professionals, and seem to have no relevance to life. And yes, I am one of the geeks that Bene talks about.

Here’s how I would answer. Help me out; I think my answer could be improved.

First, you’re right. Many theological debates should be abandoned because they are what the Bible calls “unprofitable and useless” (Titus 3:9).

Second, good theology is always intensely practical. What we believe about God has very real implications for how we live. Theology shouldn’t be for eggheads. It isn’t for the theologians and academics. Theology is always in the service of the church – for the people who have to go out and make a living and do things that normal people do.

Third, I think when you say “real world” you’re talking about everyday life. But good theology describes a world that is more real than what many people think of when they say “real world”. What if theology describes the real world better than the newspaper?

I’d appreciate your comments on this one. Agree? Disagree? Anything else you would say?